Memorial service set for Oct. 25 at the Writers Guild Theater in Beverly Hills
\n\nTim O’Donnell, the veteran comedy writer-director known for his work on sitcoms including “Growing Pains,” “Dave’s World” and “Phil of the Future,” has died. He was 77.
\n\nO’Donnell died at his home in Glendale, Calif. on July 27. He had struggled with bladder cancer for three years. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Oct. 25 at the Writers Guild Theater in Beverly Hills.
\n\nO’Donnell was known for his versatility and skill at shaping network TV comedies during the modern heyday of sitcoms. He was also active with the Writers Guild of America West, serving twice on contract negotiating committees and as a board member.
\n\nMore recently, O’Donnell had worked with Sony Pictures on the studio’s efforts to develop local-language adaptations of sitcoms. He traveled to Russia and China in the 2000s to help instruct local producers on how to craft American-style sitcoms.
\n\n“Tim knew everybody, and he was an astute observer of the business,” said Brian Lowry, a Variety alum and media biz commentator. “As a former news guy, he also recognized the absurdities that populated his new sphere and had the…
Original source: https://variety.com/v/tv/